Conversations in Ethics and Neurodevelopmental Disorders

This series was created to publicize and share just a few of the fascinating ethical issues that face Developmental Neuroscience today. Members of the Kids Brain Health Network/Neuroethics Core Research teams interview experts in their fields about the issues that they think are worth talking about.

There is a short video, a full length podcast for each interview and a reference list for further reading!

We hope these pique your curiosity and we want to hear your comments and ideas, whether you are a researcher, a person affected by these issues, or a curious member of the public. Comments, and suggestions for topics are welcome on the NeuroEthics Blog, Facebook, and Twitter page.

Talking about Alternative Therapies for Cerebral Palsy

Talking about Alternative Therapies for Cerebral Palsy Meet Dr. Adam Kirton, a Pediatric Neurologist at Alberta Children’s Hospital and University of Calgary and Dr. Darcy Fehlings, a Developmental Pediatrician at the University of Toronto and Bloorview Kids Rehab. Here, in a conversation with Dr. Judy Illes, they discuss alternative therapies for cerebral palsy, the need for collaboration between families and doctors and evidence based medicine.

Talking about Stem Cells and Cerebral Palsy

Meet Dr. Michael Fehlings, a Neurosurgeon, Scientist and Professor at the University of Toronto. Here, in a discussion with Dr. Judy Illes, he discusses the potential for stem cells in the treatment of cerebral palsy and the associated ethical issues.

Talking about Prenatal Screening for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorders

Meet Dr. James Reynolds, a Professor and Researcher at Queens University. Here, in a discussion with Dr. Emily Bell, he discusses the potential for using biomarkers to screen for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder, the associated risks and benefits of this and ethical issues.

Talking about Cerebral Palsy, Adolescence, and Transitions

Meet Dr. Eric Racine, Director of the Neuroethics Research Unit, Institut de recherches cliniques de Montreal. Here, in a conversation with Dr. Nina di Pietro, he discusses ethical issues for adolescents living with cerebral palsy, and their transition to adult services.